Media Release

Veterans’ Affairs Minister Joe Szakacs has paid tribute to Australian service personnel who lost their lives during the Korean War while at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Korea (UNMCK) last week.

During the 12 June visit, Minister Szakacs laid a wreath at the Australian Memorial, which commemorates our country’s contribution to the Korean War effort.

Located in Busan, it is the only UN cemetery globally and serves as the final resting place for thousands of UN personnel, including 281 Australians who died in the conflict.

Among them are the graves of at least six brave South Australians who served with the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR).

The Minister also visited the Wall of Remembrance, which is inscribed with the names of 40,896 fallen soldiers from 17 countries. Set against a symbolic round pond and lotus flower, the wall represents an enduring hope for peace.

Australia was one of the first nations to commit forces to the UN effort following the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950. More than 17,000 Australians served, with nearly 340 losing their lives and more than 1,200 wounded.

Australian troops played pivotal roles in key battles, including the Battle of Kapyong and the Battle of Maryang San, helping to halt enemy advances.

The Minister’s visit formed part of a broader trade mission to the region, reinforcing the strong ties between South Australia and the Republic of Korea.

Quotes attributable to Joe Szakacs

The courage and sacrifice of these young Australians will never be forgotten, and it was an honour to pay tribute to their legacy.

This visit is a reminder of the enduring bonds between our nations, forged through shared sacrifice and strengthened by decades of peace and cooperation.

We honour not only the fallen but also the values they fought to defend.

Lest we forget.